Objectives for the Course

The Characteristics of Life

I can define living organisms based on specific characteristics and explain how these definitions have evolved with scientific advancements.
I can recognize the contributions of key scientists to our understanding of life and discuss the impact of cell theory and microscopy.
I can pose questions and create representations about diverse life processes, including debate on the status of viruses, viroids, and prions as living entities.
I can analyze the processes through which organisms synthesize energy and discuss the structure and function of complex biological molecules.
I can design and evaluate models to understand cellular processes and homeostasis.

I can describe the mechanisms of evolution, including gene flow, genetic drift, and natural selection, and identify common misconceptions.
I can outline the principles of biological evolution and investigate human influence through selective breeding.
I can explain the significance of LUCA and use cladograms and phylogenetic trees to determine evolutionary relationships.
I can discuss the contributions and observations of key scientists to the theory of natural selection and evolutionary biology.
I can examine how selective pressures and isolation contribute to species evolution and identify evidence supporting evolution.
I can explore human evolution, considering significant hypotheses and the impact of mass extinctions and evolutionary concepts over geological time.

I can describe the different parts of a cell and their functions.
I can compare cell wall structures and describe the importance of cell membranes, ribosomes, and DNA.
I can explain the difference between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells.
I can describe the processes and stages of mitosis and meiosis and explain their significance in cell division and reproduction.
I can demonstrate the significance of passive and active transport in maintaining homeostasis in cells.
I can observe and compare structures enabling locomotion in unicellular organisms and analyze adaptations in extreme environments.
I can discuss the evolutionary costs and benefits of reproductive strategies and organism responses to stimuli.

I can critique the development, challenges, and changes in classification systems, including taxonomic hierarchy and the use of dichotomous keys.
I can research the contributions of scientists to naming conventions and demonstrate how phylogenetic relationships inform classification.
I can compare anatomical structures and functions using various methods and discuss ethical implications of scientific research.

I can explore inheritance patterns, construct Punnett squares, and recognize the role of chromosomes and meiosis in genetics.
I can model molecular genetic processes, assess the impact of mutations, and discuss genetic variation's role in evolution.
I can identify examples of biotechnology's historical, current, and emerging roles and critique societal and ethical considerations.
I can defend positions on intellectual property and analyze the role of regulation in biotechnology.
I can simulate techniques used in genetic research and evaluate the importance of collaborative scientific endeavors.
I can describe environmental and epigenetic factors influencing genetic expression and the importance of DNA in inheritance and evolution.